The diktat would compel the UK to end exempting cider makers who produce less than 7,000 litres from paying excise duty.

Some argue the move could stop small-scale producers from bothering to make cider altogether, arguing it would add 37p to the cost of producing every litre of cider.

The letter signed by cider makers says: "Removing tax relief from hundreds of otherwise viable micro-businesses who account for 80 per cent of the entire sector would limit consumer choice and damage an industry that is part of the fabric of Britain.

"While a blanket exemption may be unjust, this tax rise would be a disproportionate burden, costing up to £2,700 per year."